Tag Archives: coping with post-traumatic stress disorder in veterans

Physical and emotional traumas are unavoidable for people who stand in the front line. As veterans come back home, families are most interested in their men having emotional and informational detox. Many of them are deeply shaken and cannot peacefully function in the civil society anymore.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is characterized by intrusive memories, trouble sleeping and nightmares, avoidance, and manifesting an inadequate physical or emotional reaction. Suicidal thoughts may occur as veterans recall traumatic events. Before discussing the treatment options, we shall say that families must be highly attentive taking care of their men. Veterans often deny being unwell as they have used to feeling so for a long time. So the family is expected to react to severe changes and ask a medical provider for help if necessary.

After a physician has conducted a physical examination and a psychological check, they can diagnose PTSD and, most importantly, define its severity. Trauma-focused psychotherapies are the most highly-recommended treatment for the condition. These are counseling sessions that involve visualizing and talking about the traumatic event. The patient learns how to gain control over their feelings with the help of the prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy, or eye-movement desensitization. There are other types of trauma-focused therapy that allow to practice relaxation and to change the distressing memories.

No treatment can do without medication, especially, post-traumatic stress disorder. Sertraline, paroxetine, fluoxetine, and venlafaxine are the most effective antidepressants used to cope with the decreased chemical interchange that happens during a depression. Medication must be chosen individually taking into account counter-indications and possible side effects.